Author Melanie Benjamin to visit Winnetka's Book Stall

The Book Stall, 811 Elm St., Winnetka, is partnering with the Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District to host author Melanie Benjamin at the store at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28, for a discussion about her new novel, "California Golden," a gripping, emotional story set at a time when mothers were expected to be Donna Reed, not Gidget.

The Donnelly sisters navigate the turbulent, euphoric early days of California surf culture in this dazzling saga of ambition, sacrifice and longing, from The New York Times bestselling author.

This event is free with registration. To register, visit www.thebookstall.com.

Shelby Van Pelt, author of "Remarkably Bright Creatures" says, "'California Golden' left me breathless. Against the shimmering backdrop of California's burgeoning surf culture, Melanie Benjamin explores the bonds of sisterhood and motherhood in an era where society, and its expectations of women are ever changing. The Donnelly women, perfect in their imperfections, will stay with you long after the last page."

Melanie Benjamin is a prize-winning novelist and The New York Times bestselling author of "The Children's Blizzard," "Mistress of the Ritz," "The Girls in the Picture," "The Swans of Fifth Avenue," "The Aviator's Wife," "The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb," and "Alice I Have Been."

Benjamin lives in Chicago. You can find out more about her at melaniebenjamin.com.